Calculate the Cost of Your UAE Business Setup
Answer five quick questions and a Wise Cat advisor will prepare a personalised plan with the right jurisdiction, licence and package for your business.
- 1,000+ companies formed for clients from 50+ nationalities
- Mainland and 10+ free zones across the UAE
- Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees
Company formation with leading UAE authorities and free zones
Everything you need to launch and grow
Honest advice, clear pricing and one advisor who stays with you from your first question to your first invoice.
1,000+ companies formed
Entrepreneurs, SMEs and international investors from more than 50 nationalities have trusted us to set up their UAE business.
Bank account opening support
We help you choose the right bank for your activity and prepare a strong application to reduce delays and rejections.
Tax and compliance ready
Corporate tax registration, VAT registration and renewals handled for you, so you stay compliant with UAE rules and can focus on growth.
Fast, hands-off setup
We prepare your documents, deal with the authorities and keep you updated at every stage. Many setups are completed within days.
Split your setup cost
Pay for eligible setups in 4 interest-free instalments with Tabby.
End-to-end support for your business
Trusted by business owners across the UAE
Rated 4.7 on Google by clients from more than 50 nationalities.
“Wise Cat has been exceptional in their services. In my 4 years of business renewal experience, they have been the most efficient, quick, reliable, value for money and easy to deal agency in Dubai. I would highly recommend them.”
“When we needed an Ejari for our trading license renewal, they provided us with the Ejari of virtual offices at the best price across Dubai. Their service was efficient, hassle-free, and truly exceeded our expectations.”
“They handled both my company renewal and residence permit renewal smoothly and efficiently. Their team was professional, responsive, and very supportive throughout the whole process. Everything was completed on time.”
“I’ve known Wise Cat for 5 years, and they are exceptional in business setup in the UAE. Their deep expertise, industry knowledge, and quick response times make them a standout choice.”
“Would 100% vouch. Very professional, transparent and communicative. I didn’t even follow up once for any update. I will always choose Wise Cat for any visa requirements.”
“Thank you Wise Cat for a smooth transaction. What a brilliant and supporting team.”
From idea to licence, without the hassle
No jargon and no hidden steps, just a clear path to getting your business running.
Free Consultation
A 15-minute call to understand your business, recommend the right jurisdiction and give you an itemised quote.
- Review your business plans
- Compare free zone and mainland
- Get your cost breakdown
We Handle Everything
We prepare your application, deal with the authorities, manage your visa quota and make sure every document is in order.
- Documents prepared
- Licence application filed
- Government approvals
Open for Business
Your licence is issued, visas are processed and your bank account application is underway, so you can start trading.
- Licence issued
- Visas processed
- Ready to trade
Stop guessing the numbers. Find out what your business setup will cost.
Get Your Free EstimateFrequently asked questions
How much does it cost to set up a business in the UAE?
It depends on the jurisdiction, your business activity, the number of visas and the type of office you need. Free zone packages usually start lower than mainland, while mainland gives you full access to the UAE market. Answer the five questions above and your advisor will send you an itemised quote with every government and service fee listed.
What is the difference between a free zone and a mainland company?
A free zone company is licensed by a free zone authority, offers 100% foreign ownership and can qualify for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, but trading directly inside the UAE is limited. A mainland company is licensed by Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET), can trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government contracts, and needs an Ejari-registered address.
How long does company setup take?
Many setups are completed within a few working days once your documents are ready. Activities that need external approvals, or mainland companies that need an office, can take longer. Your advisor will give you a realistic timeline for your exact case on the call.
Can I set up a company without living in the UAE?
Yes. Most of the process can be completed remotely. You only need to be in the UAE for visa steps such as the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics.
What documents do I need?
Usually a passport copy and a passport-size photo for each shareholder, plus a UAE entry stamp or visa copy if you are already here. Some activities and corporate shareholders need extra documents, which your advisor will list for you.
Do I need a physical office?
Not always. Many free zones offer flexi desks or virtual options, and many mainland activities can use a virtual office with Ejari. If you need several visas or have a customer-facing business, a physical office may be required.
Do I have to pay corporate tax?
UAE corporate tax is 9% on taxable profit above AED 375,000. Qualifying free zone companies can pay 0% on qualifying income. We handle corporate tax and VAT registration so you stay compliant from day one.
Why use a consultant instead of doing it myself?
Choosing the wrong activity, jurisdiction or visa package can cost far more than a consultant. We handle the paperwork, government submissions and banks for you, and you get one advisor from start to finish.
Ready to launch?
Get your personalised setup plan in about 2 minutes. Free, no hidden fees and no obligation.